A Power of Attorney is a legal document in which you give someone you trust the right to make decisions for you if something happens and you are no longer able to look after matters on your own.

There are two types of Power of Attorney:

• Power of Attorney for Personal Care – the person you name can make decisions about your health care, housing and other aspects of your personal life (such as meals and clothing) if you become mentally incapable of making these decisions.

• Power of Attorney for Property – the person you name can make decisions about your financial affairs (including paying your bills, collecting money owed to you, maintaining or selling your house, or managing your investments).

A Power of Attorney is not required but if something happens to you and you don’t have one, other arrangements will have to be made. A family member may have the right to make certain personal care decisions, and can apply to become the guardian of your property.